Peyton Swartwout completed a cycle across the doubleheader and Makayla Esau delivered four extra-base hits as the Finger Lakes Community College softball team split with Tompkins Cortland Community College on Friday, dropping the opener 6-5 before rallying for a 10-9 walk-off win in Game 2. The Lakers moved to 3-24 overall and 2-8 in the Mid-State Athletic Conference, while TC3 stands at 5-17 and 3-7.
Finger Lakes came up just short in Game 1 despite a competitive effort. Swartwout fueled the Panthers with a double and triple while scoring three runs, and she also struck out 10 in a complete-game performance. The Lakers got contributions from Esau, who doubled, but could not break through late with the tying run in scoring position.
The Lakers responded in dramatic fashion in Game 2. After falling behind early, Finger Lakes chipped away and capitalized on late opportunities in the seventh inning. Taking advantage of defensive miscues and aggressive baserunning, the Lakers pushed across the winning run on a delayed steal of home to complete the comeback.
Esau led the charge at the plate, going 4-for-4 with a home run and two doubles, while Swartwout added a homer and drove in three runs. The Lakers’ offense stayed within striking distance before erupting late to secure the split.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].